Viramune Information  E-mail

What is Viramune?


Viramune is an antiviral drug used to treat patients with HIV.  It is a class of HIV drug called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors.  

How does Viramune Work?


HIV works by infecting cells and copying its genetic material (RNA) into the cell’s DNA.  This programs the cell to create more copies of the virus.  In order for HIV to infect T-cells, it has to use an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert its RNA to DNA.  Viramune works by attaching to this enzyme and prevents HIV from being able to use it to convert its genetic material.  This prevents the cell from making copies of HIV.

Will Viramune Cure HIV?


Viramune is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.  People who take it are still susceptible to opportunistic infections (OI’s) or other conditions common with HIV infection.  OI’s happen because HIV weakens the immune system so that it is harder for you to fight infection.  It is always a good idea to see your doctor regularly while using Viramune.

Please note that taking Viramune will not reduce the risk of infecting someone else through unprotected sex, sharing needles or being exposed to infected blood.

Is Viramune Right for Me?


Always consult your doctor before taking Viramune.  You shouldn’t take Viramune if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

The active ingredient is: nevirapine (na VAIR a peen)

The inactive ingredients are: microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, povidone, sodium starch glycolate, colloidal silicon dioxide and magnesium stearate.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider?


Inform your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to nevirapine or if you have allergies to any fillers used in medication.

Women who take Viramune may have a greater change of developing a serious rash or reaction with this medication. These serious skin reactions usually occur in the first 12 to 18 weeks of taking it.    

Viramune has been shown to decrease the chance of passing HIV to a baby during labor and at birth.  Studies in animals have shown that high doses of Viramune caused decreased body weight in infant animals but did not cause birth defects.

Viramune can pass into breast milk, however it is not recommended that HIV positive mothers breast feed.  They could pass HIV to their babies through infected breast milk.

Inform your doctor if you have: kidney or liver problems, bone problems, mental illness or seizures.  

Using Viramune


Always take Viramune the way your doctor prescribed you to.  Do not modify the dose or stop taking this medication without consulting a healthcare professional.  Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water with or without food.

It is important not to miss any doses of this medication as it could cause HIV to become resistant.  If you do miss a dose then take that missed dose immediately, unless it is time for your next dose.  Then just take that dose and skip your missed dose.
 
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